Revealed: The 20 best places to live in England in 2026, and what you should buy: The gorgeous Surrey village. The top Manchester suburbs. And the Cheshire, Hertfordshire and Kent hotspots to covet. So is YOURS on our special report’s list?
The top 20 places to live revealed – and first AND second place feature houses for just £300,000: How does YOUR home rank among 1,500 cities, towns and villages in England and Wales?
Cushioned in the foothills of the Peak District National Park sits Marple: a charming Cheshire village featuring exquisite Georgian and Victorian architecture, a number of excellent schools and a vibrant community spirit.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Marple has claimed this year’s crown as the best place to live in England and Wales by Garrington Property Finders, the largest independent buying agency in the UK.
Second place goes to Rawdon, a village outside Leeds famed for its landscapes and city access, while St Albans in Hertfordshire takes third.
Garrington’s annual report ranks 1,447 cities, towns, and large villages of 5,000-plus residents, using five key criteria: natural beauty, wellbeing, heritage, schools and jobs, and value for money.
According to Garrington, this year’s list reflects the narrowing north-south property divide in England and Wales; prices continued to across northern England and much of Wales, but remained stagnant, or even fell, in London and the southeast.
However, regional differences made evident by this year’s report are striking, with prices in London falling by 2.4 per cent, compared to a five per cent rise in the North East, and growth of over three per cent in the North West and Yorkshire and the Humber.
Indeed, neither London nor any location in Wales make it into the top 20, while Hertfordshire and Greater Manchester perform best, each securing five positions on the list.
The Welsh winner is Penarth (113th), an elegant seaside town just three miles from the centre of Cardiff that’s famed for its Art Deco pavilion and pebble beach, with London’s royal borough, Kensington and Chelsea, ranked top for the capital, at 44th place.
Against this backdrop, we take a closer look at the top 20 places to live – with an analysis of amenities, schools and transport links, plus an interactive tool revealing how your hometown fares in the list of all 1,447 spots.
20. EWELL, SURREY
Just over ten miles from central London and a mere eight-mile jaunt to the Surrey Hills, Ewell’s location is hard to beat. Pictured: Bourne Hall Lake
Surrey is brimming with pretty villages, but few are as well situated as Ewell.
Just over ten miles from central London – with two rail lines whisking you there in under 45 minutes – and a mere eight-mile jaunt to the Surrey Hills, its location is hard to beat.
But don’t mistake it for a dull commuter stop. Ewell’s high street buzzes with independent cafes, tempting restaurants and boutiques like The Style Closet and Bluebells, where even the littlest locals can sport the latest designer looks.
For daily essentials, there’s a Sainsbury’s Local, a Co-op and a bakery.
Culture and leisure come easy too, with a museum, a theatre, and a library dotted among green spaces, a duck pond and a lake.
Hogsmill River, a tributary of the Thames, serves as a backdrop winding its way through the village.
For a fun day trip, Chessington World of Adventures theme park is a 15-minute drive away.
Ewell fell 12 places in this year’s ranking but it still scored highly for schools, employment and connectivity (34th) and natural environment (68th).
Average price of a family home: £743,647
Transport links: Ewell West station provides direct trains to Guilford and London Waterloo both taking 35 minutes. East Ewell station connects London Bridge in 40 minutes. The A240 connects the town to the M25.
Schools: Several ‘outstanding’ schools are found in Epsom and Ewell including Danetree Primary School (two to 11) and Glyn School (11 to 18).
On the market: This impressive family home has a sweeping open plan layout that creates a bright and contemporary feel throughout the lounge, kitchen and dining area. There is also a downstairs playroom and toilet plus three upstairs bedrooms including one ensuite and a driveway for two cars. For sale for £600,000.
19. RICKMANSWORTH, HERTFORDSHIRE
Residents can explore heritage boats at Batchworth Lock Canal Centre, known for its natural beauty
Rickmansworth in Hertfordshire offers a pleasant green environment with strong transport links to London, making it a popular choice for families and commuters.
The town is known for the Rickmansworth Aquadrome where 100 acres of lakes, woodlands and open spaces invite walking, watersports and birdwatching.
Residents can explore heritage boats at Batchworth Lock Canal Centre, or wander among historic buildings at the Chiltern Open Air Museum.
The Grand Union Canal and Aldenham Country Park offer scenic walks while the town has cosy cafes and delis adding to its village charm.
Those craving a full day of retail therapy can head to nearby Watford or Uxbridge.
Nearby major attractions include the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Hatfield House, known for its history with Queen Elizabeth I.
Rickmansworth’s best scoring areas are house price quality and value (99th), and for schools, employment, and connectivity (143rd).
Average price of a family home: £829,128
Transport links: Rickmansworth has a Tube station for London access and Chiltern Railway links to Birmingham, Oxford and Aylesbury. It is also a ten-minute drive from the M25 ring road which circles Greater London.
Schools: St Clement Danes School (11 to 18) and Rickmansworth School (11 to 18) are ‘outstanding’ local schools. The independent Royal Masonic School for Girls (two to 18), is also known for its excellent results.
On the market: This gorgeous cottage has three bedrooms, a pretty kitchen-diner with solid wood countertops and a two-tier back garden. For sale for £675,000.
18. HILDENBOROUGH, KENT
Dame Kelly Holmes trains in her home village of Hildenborough, Kent
With notable residents like British athlete Dame Kelly Holmes and historic sites like Leeds Castle, once owned by King Henry VIII, it’s no wonder Hildenborough earns the title of Kent’s most desirable place to live.
The commuter village has a swift 45-minute train service to London Victoria, and is just an hour’s drive to the beaches of the south coast.
Its greatest strength, though, is wellbeing: it ranks seventh in this category according to Garrington, a testament to its family-friendly atmosphere.
Nearby attractions are Godstone Farm and Oakie Dokes Play House as well as laser quest and climbing in nearby Tonbridge. While the nearby woodlands of Bedgebury Pinetum are perfect walking, cycling and tree-top adventures at Go Ape.
Hildenborough is well-served by excellent primary and secondary schools as well as good grammar options, and benefits from job opportunities in nearby Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells.
Average price of a family home: £754,191
Transport links: Hildenborough connects to London in around an hour via the M25 or several train services.
Schools: ‘Outstanding’ local schools include Ightham Primary School (four to 11), St Thomas’ Catholic Primary School in Sevenoaks (three to 11), The Judd School (11 to 18) and Tonbridge Grammar School (11 to 18).
On the market: This three-bedroomed house sits in a quiet cul-de-sac near schools and amenities. Among its features are a paved driveway, a bright sitting room with a tiled fireplace and a conservatory opening onto the garden. The modern kitchen breakfast room has wood block worktops, engineered oak flooring and a utility room with direct garage access. For sale for £550,000.
17. BUSHEY, HERTFORDSHIRE
With great shops and standout spots like St James Restaurant and The Kings Stag, there’s plenty to keep you happy
For people who want the best of all worlds, set your sights on Bushey.
Just 16 miles – or a breezy 20-minute train ride – from London Euston, this artsy town is set among rolling hills and green fields.
Famous for its film and TV cameos (think Monty Python and Little Britain) thanks to nearby Elstree Studios, Bushey’s creative streak goes way back to Victorian artist Hubert Herkomer, who founded an art school here in 1883 and helped shape the town’s arts community.
But Bushey isn’t just a pretty face. With top-notch schools – its highest scoring category – local shops, and standout spots like St James Restaurant and The Kings Stag, there’s plenty to keep you happy.
Explore green spaces like King George Recreation Ground and Bushey Rose Garden, or hit the links at Bushey Hall Golf Club.
Dive into the community spirit at the annual Bushey Festival, quarter marathon and the Horticultural Society’s lively flower show.
Average price of a family home: £742,601
Transport links: Rail links connect Bushey to London Euston in 20 minutes and to Watford’s bustling high street in just five minutes. It also skirts the M1 which runs from London to Leeds via Leicester, Nottingham and Sheffield.
Schools: Bushey Heath Primary School (three to 11) and Avanti House School (11 to 18) are both ‘outstanding’ schools in the area.
On the market: This charming cottage has a newly remodelled kitchen and breakfast room, a cosy lounge with a fireplace, secluded rear gardens and three bedrooms. Situated on the high street, close to shops and amenities, it is a short walk to Bushey Station. On the market for £580,000.
16. BRISTOL
The city’s personality is as varied as its neighborhoods, from the Georgian terraces of Clifton to the vibrant street art in Stokes Croft, and a colorful waterfront scene
Bristol offers an enviable mix of neighbourhoods to call home, whether you prefer the historic charm of Clifton, the bohemian buzz of Bishopston’s independent shops or the family-friendly appeal of Westbury Park with its excellent schools and green spaces.
The city’s personality is as varied as its neighborhoods, from the Georgian terraces of Clifton to the vibrant street art in Stokes Croft, and a colorful waterfront scene.
It’s a place that celebrates individuality, with a roll call of alumni including Banksy and the creators of Wallace and Gromit.
Where Bristol truly excels is in schools, employment and connectivity, ranking 36th according to Garrington, while its rich heritage and culture (61st) add to its appeal.
Average price of a family home: £580,523
Transport links: Bristol has two main train stations, Temple Meads and Parkway, offering direct routes to London Paddington in just 90 minutes, and to Exeter and Cardiff in around an hour.
Schools: Ashton Gate Primary School (four to 11), Beacon Rise Primary School (four to 11) and Bishop Road Primary School (three to 11) are all ‘outstanding’ local schools. Abbeywood Community School (11 to 19) is a ‘good’ secondary school.
On the market: This pretty Victorian mid-terrace is situated near a bustling row of restaurants, bars and FED coffee shop. The property comprises three bedrooms, two reception rooms and a kitchen with utility area as well as charming features such as wood floors and a period fire place. For sale for £475,000.
15. STOCKPORT, GREATER MANCHESTER
The historic Market Square and Underbanks brim with independent shops, giving the area a refreshingly unpretentious charm
This Manchester neighbour is fast becoming fresh, fun and family – plus it’s the only spot in Britain with a dedicated hat museum.
Stockport mixes creativity with practicality, offering good-value homes, pretty parks, local choir groups and a revitalized Stockport County FC.
With trains to Manchester Piccadilly in just 10 minutes and the new Stockport Interchange linking an underground bus station with a public park, connectivity is top-notch.
The historic Market Square and Underbanks brim with independent shops, giving the area a refreshingly unpretentious charm.
House prices have stayed appealingly stable, and Stockport secures a spot in Garrington’s top 50 for schools, employment, connectivity.
Plus, with a major government investment bringing the long-awaited Manchester Metrolink by 2030, Stockport’s transport revolution is about to get even better.
Average price of a family home: £443,183
Transport links: Stockport Interchange has 18 bus stands with 164 departures in an hour traveling in and around the town. Direct trains run to Manchester Picadilly (10 minutes), Liverpool South Parkway (one hour), Birmingham New Street (one hour, 20 minutes) and London Euston (two hours).
Schools: Alexandra Park Primary School (three to 11), Burnage Academy for Boys (11 to 16) and Cheadle Hulme High School (11 to 18) are among 21 ‘outstanding’ schools in the local area.
On the market: This three-bedroom family home has a stylish kitchen and bathroom, a spacious rear garden, off-street parking and a new roof fitted in 2025. It’s located close to excellent schools, local amenities and good transport links. For sale for £370,000.
14. TWYFORD, BERKSHIRE
Believed to date back to the Anglo-Saxon era, the village’s name is thought to mean double ford
Perched in the royal county of Berkshire, the large village of Twyford is home to some 7,000 residents.
Believed to date back to the Anglo-Saxon era, the village’s name is thought to mean double ford – referencing its two fords over two branches of the River Loddon.
Residents enjoy a well-stocked Waitrose, a Tesco Express, a range of shops, cafés, restaurants, and a handy post office.
The village climbed 21 spots in this year’s Garrington report and, while it didn’t break the top 100 in any single category, it performed consistently well overall – especially in wellbeing (165th), house price quality and value (205th) and schools employment and connectivity (226th).
Average price of a family home: £699,138
Transport links: Excellent road connections via the M40, M4, and M3 put much of the country, including London, within easy reach, while Twyford’s own station offers a swift 28-minute train journey to the capital and a branch line to Henley-on-Thames. A taxi rank is located at the station exit and local bus services connect the village to surrounding areas. Convenient Elizabeth Line services run to London Heathrow and across London.
Schools: There are several ‘good’ primary schools in the area including Gobowen Primary School (three to 11) and Kinnerley Church of England Primary School and Nursery (two to 11).
On the market: Space is in abundance at this double-fronted detached house on the edge of Twyford. Downstairs comprises a bright living dining area leading onto a conservatory, a separate kitchen, study, utility and WC. Upstairs are three double bedrooms including one ensuite and a family bathroom. It’s for sale for £675,000.
13. TRING, HERTFORDSHIRE
Tring is a Hertfordshire market town rich in architectural heritage, from the stately Tring Park Mansion to the quirky Natural History Museum
Perched on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, Tring is a Hertfordshire market town rich in architectural heritage, from the stately Tring Park Mansion to the quirky Natural History Museum and its collection of stuffed creatures.
The town centre pops with independent shops, cafés and classic pubs, giving a lively yet close-knit atmosphere.
Hikers and swimmers are drawn to the nearby lakes and reservoirs, while the windswept summit of Ivinghoe Beacon is on the doorstep.
Tring secures 23rd place for its natural environment, alongside strong rankings for wellbeing, schools, employment, and connectivity – all within the top 300.
Food lovers, meanwhile, are well catered for at Storia, serving homemade Italian dishes and handpicked wines.
Average price of a family home: £781,232
Transport links: Tring railway station offers direct journeys to London Euston in 45 minutes, while local bus services provide connections around the town. Both the M25 and M1 are around a 20-minute drive away, granting easy access to London, Manchester, and the North.
Schools: Aldbury Church of England Primary and Nursery School (three to 11) and Tring School (11 to 18) are among many ‘good’ schools in the local area.
On the market: This three-bedroom cottage, originally part of the historic Pendley Manor Estate, features Edwardian symmetry, two pretty reception rooms, a light-filled dining conservatory, original fireplaces and a charming outbuilding with underfloor heating. Set within a striking terrace of black and white homes, it is a three-minute walk from Tring railway station. For sale for £750,000.
12. EPSOM, SURREY
Notable draws include a vibrant high street filled with independent shops and eateries, train links to London and green spaces
The Surrey spa town of Epsom, home to the world-famous Derby horse races owned by The Jockey Club, has been a consistent performer in previous editions of Garrington’s annual ranking.
However, after securing the runner-up spot last year, Epsom narrowly misses the 2026 top ten, falling 11 places due to stiffer competition in the county this year.
Its greatest strengths remain schools, employment and connectivity, scoring 14th place in this category thanks to a number of well-rated schools and high-paying jobs in the area.
Other notable draws include a vibrant high street filled with independent shops and eateries, train links to London and more green spaces than you can shake a dog’s lead at, earning Epsom 22nd for natural environment.
Despite this, a significant drop in the house price quality and value category – from 81st to 236th place – contributed to its overall decline, even though the average price of a family home dropped 10 per cent since last year.
Average price of a family home: £712,105.
Transport links: Trains to London Victoria, London Bridge and London Waterloo take around 40 minutes while Guildford is reached in 30 minutes. Central London is a 45-minute drive away via the A3. The M23 heads south to the coast connecting to the A23 for Brighton, reached in around an hour.
Schools: Danetree Primary School (two to 11) was rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2024 as was Glyn School (11 to 18) secondary academy in 2023. Both are in Epsom and Ewell.
On the market: Praised for its proximity to local schools and Epsom town centre, this detached property is the quintessential family home, comprising almost 1,500 sq ft including three bedrooms. Outside offers a southerly facing garden, a garage and carport. On the market for offers in excess of £700,000.
11. REDDISH, GREATER MANCHESTER
The area scores most highly for its natural environment thanks to Reddish Vale Country Park
Community spirit runs high in Reddish, Greater Manchester, where free ‘Soup for the Soul’ wellbeing sessions at Reddish North Community Centre, family outings at Reddish Vale Farm and lively social nights at the Reddish Working Men’s Club keep residents connected.
They are also kept happily fuelled at local eateries like Oddy Knocky Coffee with its fancy brews, Grynd café with its tasty cakes and The Little Shope Café’s fry-ups.
The area scores most highly for its natural environment (33rd) partly thanks to Reddish Vale Country Park, a sprawling 161-hectare green haven along the River Tame which invites walking, cycling, fishing and animal encounters.
Red-brick Victorian terraces and old churches lend the area charm, as well as landmarks such as the Grade II-listed clock and drinking fountain in Houldsworth Square and the chicly converted Houldsworth Mill apartments.
Houldsworth Square is surrounded by shops, supermarkets, banks, and a post office, while Reddish and Gorton Roads tempt with pubs, restaurants and international cuisine.
Add in two popular golf courses, South Reddish Park’s playground and easy access to Manchester and Stockport’s entertainment scene and it’s a clear choice for many.
Average price of a family home: £411,526
Transport links: Reddish has two railway stations with direct services from Reddish North to Manchester Picadilly and Marple in 30 minutes. Buses run to Manchester City centre while the nearby A6 takes drivers to Stockport and Manchester.
Schools: Abbott Community Primary School (three to 11), Alexandra Park Primary School (three to 11) and Levenshulme High School (11 to 16) are among many ‘outstanding’ schools nearby.
On the market: This smart semi-detached house welcomes you in with parquet-style flooring leading you into a kitchen, dining room and lounge – each their own room. A decorative porch, trimmed hedging and pointed roof give the three-bedroomed property curb appeal while the garden offers a small lawn and patio area. For sale for offers over £350,000.
10. POYNTON, CHESHIRE
Community events like the Poynton Show and Party in the Park bring the town together with horticultural displays, live music and local fare
Poynton, a lively Cheshire town of 14,000, makes an impressive leap into Garrington’s top ten this year, climbing 149 places.
Much of this rise is thanks to dramatic gains in the natural environment and wellbeing categories, both nearly doubling last year’s rankings, and a significant boost for schools, employment, and connectivity – now comfortably within the top 200.
House price quality and value remain a particular strength, improving from 35th to an enviable 24th place.
The area offers tree-lined walks along Middlewood Way and Macclesfield Canal, plus easy access to Lyme Park and the Peak District, just a 25-minute drive away.
Community events like the Poynton Show and Party in the Park bring the town together with horticultural displays, live music and local fare.
When hunger calls, Cielo Italiano Restaurant and Bar dishes up classic Italian favourites, while Fig and Fennel offers a bright, cosy spot for a wholesome meal.
Average price of a family home: £626,381
Transport links: Poynton’s railway station runs direct to Manchester Piccadilly, in 25 minutes, and Stoke-on-Trent, in 33 minutes. The closest major road is the M60 around Manchester while the nearby M6 opens up north-south travel for drivers. Buses run to Manchester’s centre.
Schools: Poynton is within reach of many ‘outstanding’ primary and secondary schools. Among them are Adlington Primary School (four to 11), Alexandra Park Primary School (three to 11), Queensgate Primary School (three to 11) and Cheadle Hulme High School (11 to 18).
On the market: This charming barn conversion is set within lush woodland patches and open fields. It comprises four bedrooms and two bathrooms as well as a generous kitchen and a cosy living area with log-effect gas fire. It’s for sale for £495,000.
9. MERLEY, DORSET
Delph Woods provides scenic countryside trails and there are several golf clubs and sports centres nearby
Community spirit runs high in Merley, a lively Dorset town just a few miles north of Poole and Bournemouth.
The Allendale Community Centre, a local institution near Merley Court, keeps the calendar packed with everything from live shows and dances to film nights and festive fairs.
Over at Merley Community Centre, you’ll find social groups, Pilates classes, line dancing and even ukulele clubs bringing neighbours together.
After ranking seventh last year, Merley has dropped down to ninth place, but remains in the top ten largely thanks to its inviting natural environment (59th) and strong sense of wellbeing (30th).
Delph Woods provides scenic countryside trails and there are several golf clubs and sports centres nearby.
Average price of a family home: £571,783
Transport links: The nearest station is Branksome, around four miles away, with direct services to Southampton in 50 minutes and London Waterloo in two hours 20 minutes.
Schools: Merley is within reach of many ‘outstanding’ schools. Among these are and Glenmoor Academy (11 to 16) secondary school in Bournemouth, Down In The Woods preschool (two to five) in Wimborne and the ‘good’ Merley First School (five to nine) which was noted for ‘outstanding’ personal development and early years provision. Parkstone Grammar School (11 to 18) in Poole is another ‘good’ school with ‘outstanding’ behaviour and attitudes.
On the market: This detached four-bedroomed house has a large sitting room, a sun conservatory and a bright utility room which leads onto a manicured garden featuring a patio and plenty of mature tree, flower and shrub borders plus a garden shed. In need of modernization, it is ideal for buyers looking for a cosmetic renovation project. For sale for £475,000.
8. WHITNASH, WARWICKSHIRE
Whitnash is largely residential, set against open countryside, and has a rich history that stretches back to the Iron Age and the Domesday Book
Whitnash may rank eighth overall, but it claims the crown for house price quality and value, making it a top spot for savvy buyers.
Wellbeing is another strong suit, with Whitnash securing a respectable 138th place in Garrington’s report.
Despite its small size – just 10,000 residents, three pubs, and four schools – this Warwickshire town punches above its weight, offering proximity to Warwick Castle, the Victorian Jephson Gardens, Abbey Fields and the British Motor Museum.
Whitnash is largely residential, set against open countryside, and has a rich history that stretches back to the Iron Age and the Domesday Book.
With no real town centre, its heart lies near St Margaret’s Church and its cluster of thatched cottages, while families enjoy a choice of four local junior schools and characterful pubs like the Plough and Harrow, Heathcote and The Hodcarrier.
Average price of a family home: £544,632
Transport links: Whitnash is best served by road and bus links, with direct services to neighbouring Warwick and Leamington Spa. The nearby A452 leads to the A46 and major motorways including the M40 for Birmingham and London. Leamington Spa is the closest train station,
Schools: There are several ‘outstanding’ primary schools in the area, including Briar Hill Infant School (four to seven), Clinton Primary School (four to 11) and St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School (three to 11). Campion School (11 to 18) and Myton School (11 to 18) are ‘good’ nearby secondary schools.
On the market: This four-bedroomed, semi-detached home has a flexible family living with a spacious open-plan layout, sleek finishes, a landscaped garden and parking for two. It’s for sale for offers over £440,000.
7. STOKE GIFFORD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE
The iconic yellow Dower House, set against sweeping parkland, has overlooked Stoke Gifford since 1553
Stoke Gifford, near Bristol, stands out for its natural environment, earning 28th place in Garrington’s report.
Woodlands and meadows unfold in Stoke Park, while Bradley Brook and Parsonage Nature Reserve offer quiet refuge for walkers and dog owners.
The area has village charm, despite its proximity to major transport links and new housing developments.
Despite its proximity to major transport links and new developments, the area retains a village character.
The iconic yellow Dower House, set against sweeping parkland, has overlooked Stoke Gifford since 1553.
Residents enjoy independent shops and old pubs like the Beaufort Arms and Fox Den, with Cribbs Causeway’s modern shopping just five miles away.
Green spaces such as Forty Acres and Meade Park add to the appeal, as well as the area’s house price quality and value, which ranks 67th.
Average price of a family home: £589,285
Transport links: Regular bus services link Stoke Gifford to Bristol and its university while Bristol Parkway train station has direct trains to Paddington in an hour and 15 minutes. Filton Abbey Wood train station, a five-minute drive away, runs direct services to Bristol Temple Meads in seven minutes and to Bath Spa in 22 minutes. The nearby M4 connects drivers to London and South Wales.
Schools: There are many ‘outstanding’ primary schools in the local area including Almondsbury Church of England Primary School (four to 11), Beacon Rise Primary School (four to 11) and Bishop Road Primary School (three to 11). Abbeywood Community School (11 to 19) and Bristol Brunel Academy (11 to 16) are ‘good’ secondary schools.
On the market: This double-fronted detached home, sold with no onward chain, has a spacious south-facing garden, contemporary décor, generous room sizes, a modern kitchen-diner, four bedrooms and a detached garage, all within walking distance of Bristol Parkway and local amenities. On the market for £490,00.
6. BOWDON, GREATER MANCHESTER
Despite its reputation, Bowdon has become slightly more accessible, with family home prices rising by a modest 1.3 per cent to reach £639,321
Bowdon, situated in Greater Manchester’s coveted ‘Golden Triangle,’ excels for schools, employment, and connectivity, ranking 37th nationally.
Favoured by Premier League footballers and business leaders, its past residents include Teddy Sheringham and Michael Bishop.
The village’s heritage and culture are also notable, securing 56th place, while tree-lined avenues and historic pubs like The Bowdon Hotel and The Swan add to its allure.
Despite its reputation, Bowdon has become slightly more accessible, with family home prices rising by a modest 1.3 per cent to reach £639,321.
Residents enjoy local walks and easy access to the Dunham Massey estate, as well as the lively Altrincham Market nearby.
Average price of a family home: £639,321
Transport links: Altrincham Interchange, around one mile from Bowdon, has direct rail services to Knutsford (20 minutes), Manchester (30 minutes), Northwich (30 minutes) and Chester (one hour). Manchester Airport is six miles away via the hourly 288 bus service or a ten-minute taxi ride.
Schools: Bowdon is not short of ‘outstanding’ education, including Bowdon CofE Primary School (four to 11), Park Road Academy Primary School (four to 11) and Park Road Sale Primary School (three to 11) ‘Outstanding’ secondary education options are all grammar schools, including Altrincham Grammar School for Boys (11 to 18) and for Girls (11 to 18), Loreto Grammar School (11 to 18) and Sale Grammar School (11 to 18).
On the market: This four-bedroomed, semi-detached home sits within a gated development and features a generous garden with beautiful open countryside views, offering secure family living just steps from Bollin Valley walks and top local schools.
5. LONG ASHTON, SOMERSET
Residents benefit from a lively calendar of fairs, music festivals, and quirky events like the West Country Games
Long Ashton, just four miles from central Bristol, saw the steepest drop in family home prices among England’s top 20, with values falling three per cent to £641,250.
The village is celebrated for its historic pub, 18-hole golf course, and spirited cricket club, earning it 40th place nationally for heritage and culture.
Expanses of green space, woodland, and open fields give Long Ashton a countryside atmosphere within easy reach of the city.
The area ranks 131st for wellbeing and offers straightforward commutes, with the A370 bringing Bristol within ten minutes by car.
Residents benefit from a lively calendar of fairs, music festivals, and quirky events like the West Country Games.
Families will enjoy the outdoor playground at Touchwood Play. While Ashton Court Estate offers beautiful gardens and hiking trails with panoramic views of Bristol.
Average price of a family home: £641,250
Transport links: The town connects via the A370 to Bristol which has regular trains to Exeter or London Paddington in an hour and a half and to Cardiff in 50 minutes.
Schools: Ashton Gate Primary School (four to 11) and Bishop Road Primary School (three to 11) are among many ‘outstanding’ nearby primary schools. Ashton Park School (11 to 18) and Bridge Learning Campus (three to 16) offer ‘good’ secondary education.
On the market: This modern, four-bedroomed house features a spacious kitchen opening to a family room with bi-fold doors to the garden, and a low-maintenance outdoor space. There are two bathrooms, including an en-suite, and a downstairs WC plus off-street parking and a partly converted garage, For sale for £550,000.
4. BRAMHALL, GREATER MANCHESTER
Residents have easy access to green spaces, including Happy Valley Nature Reserve, ideal for woodland walks
Bramhall, a 20-minute train journey from central Manchester, appeals to professionals with its top-rated schools and strong transport connections, earning 21st place nationally for schools, employment, and connectivity.
At its heart stands Bramall Hall, a Tudor manor surrounded by 70 acres of parkland.
The high street offers plenty of chic dining spots, cafés and the odd bookshop, while the village centre hums with local life.
Residents have easy access to green spaces, including Happy Valley Nature Reserve, ideal for woodland walks.
Bramhall also performs well for house price quality and value, ranking 40th in the country.
Average price of a family home: £567,177
Transport links: Bramhall’s railway station connects directly to Manchester Piccadilly in 17 minutes, while bus services provide local connections within Stockport and Greater Manchester.
Schools: There are at least eight ‘Outstanding’ local primary school including Adlington Primary School (four to 11) and Alexandra Park Primary School (three to 11). For secondary, Laurus Cheadle Hulme (11 to 16) and Levenshulme High School (11 to 16) are also outstanding.
On the market: This fabulous four-bedroomed, two-bathroom semi-detached home occupies a corner plot in a quiet cul-de-sac, featuring an impressive open-plan kitchen, open living spaces, off-road parking and close proximity to Bramhall village, local amenities and sought-after schools. For sale for £550,000.
3. ST ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE
‘Barely 20 minutes by train from central London, St Albans is popular with wealthy commuters and has schools and property prices to match,’ Garrington said
Another consistent entry among Garrington’s best places to live, this year St Albans in Hertfordshire makes it onto the winners’ podium in third place.
The highest ranked place in southern England, the city has a well-performing streak in the annual ranking that stretches back almost as far. ‘Barely 20 minutes by train from central London, St Albans is popular with wealthy commuters and has schools and property prices to match,’ Garrington said.
‘At £895,411, the price of a typical family home in the city is the highest in our top 20 for 2026.’
Average price of a family home: £895,411
Transport links: Regular train services run to London St Pancras (20 minutes), Bedford (40 minutes) and Luton Airport (25 minutes). Drivers also have easy access to the M1 motorway with key junctions to the M25 nearby.
Schools: Crabtree Infants’ School (four to seven), Crabtree Junior School (seven to 11) and High Beeches Primary School (five to 11) are among many ‘outstanding’ primary schools in the area. Beaumont School (11 to 18), Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School (11 to 18) and Parmiter’s School (11 to 18) are ‘outstanding secondary schools.
On the market: This end of terrace offers four bedrooms, an open plan lounge-diner and a pretty blue kitchen with bi-folding doors opening onto a narrow but enchanting mature garden. For sale for £800,000.
2. RAWDON, WEST YORKSHIRE
Perched on the edge of the River Aire, there is plenty of opportunity to kick about in the outdoors with parks, countryside walks and adventure activities nearby
Climbing an impressive nine places, the West Yorkshire village of Rawdon is home to some 6,646 residents.
Natural environment (95th) and heritage and culture (99th) remain its strongest categories in the report thanks to its beauty spots and historic sites.
Just six miles from the centre of Leeds, the village ‘represents good value after the price of an average family home dipped by 0.3 per cent over the year to reach £451,094,’ Garrington said.
Perched on the edge of the River Aire, there is plenty of opportunity to kick about in the outdoors with parks, countryside walks and adventure activities nearby.
Average price of a family home: £451,094
Transport links: Apperley Bridge has the closest train station, two miles away, with 15-minute services to Leeds and Bradford. Both cities are less than a 20-minute drive away while Leeds Airport is a ten-minute journey.
Schools: Bramhope Primary School (four to 11) in Leeds is an ‘outstanding’ local primary school. ‘Good’ schools in the nearby area include Rawdon Littlemoor Primary School (four to 11) and Carlton Bolling (11 to 16) secondary academy in Bradford.
On the market: Positioned in the much-loved Little London area of Rawdon, this stone end-terrace home is full of character. The property has a bright and airy kitchen-diner, a handy cellar and three bedrooms over a total 1,213 sq ft as well as a private courtyard. It’s on the market for £325,000.
1. MARPLE, GREATER MANCHESTER
Marple’s scenic setting at the foot of the Peak District, with miles of canal towpaths and wooded valleys, helped it earn 18th place for natural environment in this year’s rankings
Drumroll, please… the best place to live in England and Wales is the picture-postcard village of Marple in Greater Manchester.
After narrowly missing the top three in 2025, Marple has been praised this year for its strong community spirit, including two brass bands, a neighbourhood cinema and a range of independent shops.
Its scenic setting at the foot of the Peak District, with miles of canal towpaths and wooded valleys, helped it earn 18th place for natural environment in this year’s rankings.
Despite the average family home costing £517,119, well above the national average, Marple remains competitive for Greater Manchester and ranks 27th for house price quality and value.
Garrington describes Marple as having an understated charm and calm, reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple, just nine miles from Manchester’s city centre.
The village has some of the most beautiful architecture in Cheshire. Many Georgian and Victorian buildings have been converted into shops and restaurants.
It also has a lively arts scene with theatres, galleries, and festivals, is popular among families for its good schools and active community clubs, and offers access to beautiful forests and lakes for hiking, cycling and water sports.
Average price of a family home: £517,119
Transport links: Trains to Manchester take 22 minutes while Sheffield is reached in an hour. The M60 connects to Manchester in 30 minutes or the M60 on to Liverpool, taking one hour.
Schools: ‘Good’ local schools include All Saints Church of England Primary School Marple (four to 11), and Audenshaw School (11 to 16), a secondary academy.
On the market: This smart mid-terrace is positioned in a highly desirable area near the high street and is decorated in a modern and neutral style, making it ready to move into. On-street parking is usually available right outside, according to estate agent Bridgfords, and a modest garden is to the rear. For sale for £315,000.
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